Author Topic: EM-2/Artemis 2 Orion Construction and Processing Updates  (Read 79023 times)

Online Chris Bergin

A thread for the processing of EM-2 Orion ahead of the 2022 mission.

Orion Forum Section:
https://forum.nasaspaceflight.com/index.php?board=38.0

Orion News Articles:
https://www.nasaspaceflight.com/tag/orion/

L2 Orion:
https://forum.nasaspaceflight.com/index.php?board=29.0

All three of those links go back 2006, back in the CEV days. Been a long road of this little spacecraft!

Please use the Orion forum section for discussion etc. Let's try and keep this thread just for updates on the construction and processing.

----

And the reason for starting this thread:

Piecing together NASA's crewed Deep Space spacecraft:
https://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2017/09/piecing-together-nasas-crew-spacecraft/ - by Philip Sloss.
« Last Edit: 01/06/2020 11:12 pm by zubenelgenubi »
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Offline FutureSpaceTourist

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Re: EM-2/Artemis 2 Orion Construction and Processing Updates
« Reply #1 on: 01/11/2018 07:04 am »
Quote
First weld is complete on the Orion crew module that will carry astronauts beyond the moon.

https://twitter.com/nasa_orion/status/951250213750099969

Offline FutureSpaceTourist

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Re: EM-2/Artemis 2 Orion Construction and Processing Updates
« Reply #2 on: 02/02/2018 05:46 pm »
Quote
.@LockheedMartin technicians complete the first cone weld on the Orion crew module which will carry @NASA_Astronauts beyond the moon.

https://twitter.com/nasa_orion/status/959212964120154114

Offline Rocket Science

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Re: EM-2/Artemis 2 Orion Construction and Processing Updates
« Reply #3 on: 02/02/2018 09:39 pm »
Thank you for the great update article Philip! :) Always good when one gets to see where "the people money" is go towards...
"The laws of physics are unforgiving"
~Rob: Physics instructor, Aviator

Offline hektor

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Re: EM-2/Artemis 2 Orion Construction and Processing Updates
« Reply #4 on: 02/12/2018 06:15 pm »
In the NASA FY19 presentation EM-2 would launch in 2023 on SLS/EUS together with the LOP-G Habitat.

This means EM-2 would no longer be Lunar flyby but Lunar orbital.
« Last Edit: 02/12/2018 06:15 pm by hektor »

Online Chris Bergin

Constructing the crewed Orion – EM-2 spacecraft deep into welding operations - https://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2018/02/constructing-the-crewed-orion-em-2-welds/

- By Philip Sloss
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Offline envy887

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Re: EM-2/Artemis 2 Orion Construction and Processing Updates
« Reply #6 on: 02/17/2018 02:24 am »
In the NASA FY19 presentation EM-2 would launch in 2023 on SLS/EUS together with the LOP-G Habitat.

This means EM-2 would no longer be Lunar flyby but Lunar orbital.

Does that mean the PPE has to go first, on commercial?

Is there a RFI or RFP for the hab module?

Offline FutureSpaceTourist

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Re: EM-2/Artemis 2 Orion Construction and Processing Updates
« Reply #7 on: 05/01/2018 12:46 pm »
Some crew module welding pictures released by NASA
« Last Edit: 05/01/2018 12:49 pm by FutureSpaceTourist »

Online Chris Bergin

ARTICLE: Lockheed Martin readies Orion EM-2 Pressure Vessel for trip to KSC -

https://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2018/08/lockheed-martin-orion-em-2-pressure-vessel-ksc/

- By Philip Sloss
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Offline jacqmans

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Re: EM-2/Artemis 2 Orion Construction and Processing Updates
« Reply #9 on: 08/28/2018 02:59 pm »
The Orion crew module pressure vessel for Exploration Mission-2 arrives at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida on Aug. 24, 2018. The pressure vessel was transported in its Crew Module Transportation Fixture by super-wide transport truck from Michoud Assembly Facility near New Orleans. The pressure vessel is Orion's primary structure that holds the pressurized atmosphere astronauts will breathe and work in while in the vacuum of deep space. It will be moved into the Neil Armstrong Operations and Checkout Building high bay, where it will be secured on a precision alignment tool to begin preparing it for flight.

Photo credit: NASA/Christopher Swanson
Jacques :-)

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Re: EM-2/Artemis 2 Orion Construction and Processing Updates
« Reply #10 on: 08/29/2018 10:47 am »
News Release Issued: Aug 28, 2018 (2:07pm EDT)

Lockheed Martin Begins Final Assembly on NASA's Orion Spaceship That Will Take Astronauts Further Than Ever Before

Core of World's Only Exploration-Class Spaceship Delivered to Cape Canaveral

DENVER, Aug. 28, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Technicians have completed construction on the spacecraft capsule structure that will return astronauts to the Moon, and have successfully shipped the capsule to Florida for final assembly into a full spacecraft. The capsule structure, or pressure vessel, for NASA's Orion Exploration Mission-2 (EM-2) spacecraft was welded together over the last seven months by Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT) technicians and engineers at the NASA Michoud Assembly Facility near New Orleans.

Orion is the world's only exploration-class spaceship, and the EM-2 mission will be its first flight with astronauts on board, taking them farther into the solar system than ever before.

"It's great to see the EM-2 capsule arrive just as we are completing the final assembly of the EM-1 crew module," said Mike Hawes, Lockheed Martin vice president and program manager for Orion. "We've learned a lot building the previous pressure vessels and spacecraft and the EM-2 spacecraft will be the most capable, cost-effective and efficient one we've built."

Orion's pressure vessel is made from seven large, machined aluminum alloy pieces that are welded together to produce a strong, light-weight, air-tight capsule. It was designed specifically to withstand the harsh and demanding environment of deep space travel while keeping the crew safe and productive.

"We're all taking extra care with this build and assembly, knowing that this spaceship is going to take astronauts back to the Moon for the first time in four decades," said Matt Wallo, senior manager of Lockheed Martin Orion Production at Michoud. "It's amazing to think that, one day soon, the crew will watch the sun rise over the lunar horizon through the windows of this pressure vessel. We're all humbled and proud to be doing our part for the future of exploration."

The capsule was shipped over the road from New Orleans to the Kennedy Space Center, arriving on Friday, Aug. 24. Now in the Neil Armstrong Operations and Checkout Building, Lockheed Martin technicians will immediately start assembly and integration on the EM-2 crew module.
Jacques :-)

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Re: EM-2/Artemis 2 Orion Construction and Processing Updates
« Reply #11 on: 09/15/2018 09:24 am »
The Orion crew module pressure vessel for Exploration Mission-2 is in a work stand called the bird cage inside the Neil Armstrong Operations and Checkout Building high bay at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, on Sept. 11, 2018. The pressure vessel was transported in its Crew Module Transportation Fixture by super-wide transport truck from Michoud Assembly Facility near New Orleans. The pressure vessel is Orion's primary structure that holds the pressurized atmosphere astronauts will breathe and work in while in the vacuum of deep space.

Photo credit: NASA/Frank Michaux
« Last Edit: 09/15/2018 09:25 am by jacqmans »
Jacques :-)

Offline jbenton

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Re: EM-2/Artemis 2 Orion Construction and Processing Updates
« Reply #12 on: 09/18/2018 10:00 am »
I know that this is an Update thread and not a Discussion thread, but I have a quick question:

EM-2 is NET 2022; the current year is 2018. That is a lead time of 4 years. Why is there such a long lead time for these components?

Offline SciNews

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Re: EM-2/Artemis 2 Orion Construction and Processing Updates
« Reply #13 on: 09/18/2018 05:44 pm »
From ESA
Quote
European Service Module-2 wiring at the Airbus integration hall in Bremen, Germany, September 2018.
The structure is complete and over 11 km of cables are being meticulously placed in preparation for the computers and equipment that will keep astronauts alive and well for the second Orion mission called Exploration Mission-2.
Up to four astronauts will fly Orion to 70 000 km beyond the Moon before completing a lunar flyby and returning to Earth. The mission can take a minimum of 8 days and will collect valuable flight test data.
higher resolution image http://www.esa.int/spaceinimages/Images/2018/09/Orion_European_Service_Module-2_wiring


Offline ethan829

« Last Edit: 09/19/2018 10:02 am by ethan829 »

Offline woog

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Re: EM-2/Artemis 2 Orion Construction and Processing Updates
« Reply #15 on: 07/27/2019 07:23 pm »
The European Service Module-2 (ESM-2) is somewhat like the portal it appears to be in this image. By providing power and propulsion for the Orion spacecraft, it will transport humans back to the Moon, roughly fifty years after humankind first landed on its surface.

In assembly at Airbus in Bremen, ESM-2 is the engine of the Orion spacecraft that will fly its second mission and first with a crew. The mission is called Artemis 2 and is set for launch in 2022.

Every wire seen in this structure must be correctly connected and configured to ensure the systems providing power, propulsion, oxygen and heat get the spacecraft and its crew of four safely around the Moon and back.

Partially visible at the bottom of the Service Module are the auxiliary thrusters that have recently been installed. These along with two other types of engines will get Orion to its destination.

The main engine is a repurposed Space Shuttle Orbital Maneuvering System engine that has flown in space before. The eight auxiliary thrusters come in as backup to this main engine and to provide orbit corrections.

Lastly, 24 smaller engines grouped into six pods provide attitude control. In fixed positions, they can be fired individually as needed to move the spacecraft in different directions and rotate it into any position.

ESM-2 is expected to be completed and delivered to NASA in 2020.

The first European Service Module arrived at Kennedy Space Center in Florida in October 2018. It has since been mated with the Crew Module Adapter and Crew Module. The trio are undergoing thermal and balance testing at NASA’s Plum Brook Facility in Ohio this summer.

The recent successful Launch Abort Test that proved the spacecraft’s system can pull astronauts to safety in the event of a launch anomaly has marked another major milestone for Orion’s first exploratory mission.

Artemis 1 will qualify the spacecraft’s performance. Orion will make a flyby of the Moon, using lunar gravity to gain speed and propel itself 70 000 km beyond the Moon, almost half a million km from Earth – farther than any human has ever travelled.

On its return journey, Orion will do another flyby of the Moon before heading back to Earth.

The total trip will take around 20 days, ending with a splashdown in the Pacific Ocean without the European Service Module – it separates and burns up harmlessly in the atmosphere.

Artemis 2 will follow a similar flight path with a crew of four astronauts.

The European Service Module is built by Airbus, with smaller components coming from suppliers all over Europe, making the mission a truly international endeavour.

Orion is the first collaboration between ESA and NASA on a spacecraft that will take humans farther into space.

In addition to returning humans to the moon, Orion will be instrumental to building the Gateway, a staging post to be located in lunar orbit that will allow humans to go deeper into space.

ESA is committed to working with partners globally to achieve its exciting vision of human and robotic exploration targeting the Moon and Mars.

Credits: Airbus

https://www.flickr.com/photos/europeanspaceagency/48242593116/
« Last Edit: 10/30/2019 06:50 am by jacqmans »
a post handmade by woog

Offline FutureSpaceTourist

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Re: EM-2/Artemis 2 Orion Construction and Processing Updates
« Reply #16 on: 10/28/2019 08:09 pm »
Quote
NASA Kennedy
KSC-20190917-PH_FWM01_0067

The Orion pressure vessel for NASA’s Artemis ll mission is in view in a processing stand inside the Neil Armstrong Operations and Checkout Building high bay on Sept. 17, 2019. Orion is being prepared for the first crewed test flight atop the agency’s Space Launch System rocket. Artemis ll will lift off from Launch Complex 39B. The mission will confirm all of the spacecraft’s systems operate as designed in the actual environment of deep space with astronauts aboard. Photo credit: NASA/Frank Michaux

https://flic.kr/p/2hBQuCS

Offline ncb1397

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Re: EM-2/Artemis 2 Orion Construction and Processing Updates
« Reply #17 on: 11/02/2019 05:40 am »
latest Artemis II Orion schedule from NAC meeting presentation.


Offline jacqmans

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Re: EM-2/Artemis 2 Orion Construction and Processing Updates
« Reply #18 on: 01/11/2020 10:56 am »
The heat shield for Orion’s Artemis II mission is in view secured on a work stand in the Neil Armstrong Operations and Checkout Building high bay at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida on Jan. 9, 2020. Work continues to prepare the heat shield for flight, including applying Avcoat, an ablative material that will provide thermal protection. The heat shield, measuring roughly 16 feet in diameter, will protect astronauts upon re-entry on the second mission of Artemis. Artemis II, the first crewed mission in the series of missions to the Moon and on to Mars, will confirm all of the Orion spacecraft’s systems operate as designed in the actual environment of deep space with astronauts aboard.

Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

Offline zubenelgenubi

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Re: EM-2/Artemis 2 Orion Construction and Processing Updates
« Reply #19 on: 03/21/2020 12:50 am »
From March 20, 2020, RELEASE 20-031, NASA Leadership Assessing Mission Impacts of Coronavirus
Quote
Assembly and processing work is continuing on the Artemis II Orion spacecraft at Kennedy.
Support your local planetarium! (COVID-panic and forward: Now more than ever.) My current avatar is saying "i wants to go uppies!" Yes, there are God-given rights. Do you wish to gainsay the Declaration of Independence?

Offline FutureSpaceTourist

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Re: EM-2/Artemis 2 Orion Construction and Processing Updates
« Reply #20 on: 04/29/2020 02:38 pm »
https://www.flickr.com/photos/nasakennedy/49833456011/

Quote
KSC-20200415-PH-LHM01_0003
The launch abort motor is integrated with the jettison motor for Orion’s launch abort system (LAS) for Artemis II, inside the Launch Abort System Facility at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida on April 15, 2020. The launch abort and jettison motors are two of three motors on the LAS. The LAS will be positioned atop the Orion crew module and is designed to protect astronauts if a problem arises during launch by pulling the spacecraft away from a failing rocket. Artemis II will take the first humans in orbit around the Moon in the 21st century. Photo credit: Lockheed Martin

Offline eeergo

-DaviD-

Offline hektor

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Re: EM-2/Artemis 2 Orion Construction and Processing Updates
« Reply #22 on: 06/16/2020 04:35 pm »
Hopefully this is not an ESM-2 picture...

Offline eeergo

Hopefully this is not an ESM-2 picture...

Yep, that was an old bare-structure ESM-2 picture:

https://twitter.com/spaceexplore/status/1273555763458441218
-DaviD-

Offline FutureSpaceTourist

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Re: EM-2/Artemis 2 Orion Construction and Processing Updates
« Reply #24 on: 06/26/2020 06:46 am »
https://www.flickr.com/photos/nasakennedy/50043803428/

Quote
NASA Kennedy
KSC-20200610-PH-GEB01_0002

Inside the Neil Armstrong Operations and Checkout Building high bay at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the Artemis II crew module is relocated into a clean room on June 10, 2020. Workers will perform tube welds of the propulsion system and the Environmental Control & Life Support Systems. Artemis II is the first crewed mission in a series of missions to the Moon and on to Mars. Artemis II will confirm all of the Orion spacecraft’s systems operate as designed in the actual environment of deep space with astronauts aboard. As part of the Artemis Program, NASA will send the first woman and next man to the Moon by 2024. Photo credit: NASA/Glenn Benson

Offline jacqmans

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Re: EM-2/Artemis 2 Orion Construction and Processing Updates
« Reply #25 on: 06/26/2020 01:21 pm »
Jacques :-)

Offline hektor

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Re: EM-2/Artemis 2 Orion Construction and Processing Updates
« Reply #26 on: 06/26/2020 05:24 pm »
Hopefully this is not an ESM-2 picture...

Yep, that was an old bare-structure ESM-2 picture:


I am an optimist so I believe that it is an ESM-3 picture.

Offline jacqmans

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Re: EM-2/Artemis 2 Orion Construction and Processing Updates
« Reply #27 on: 07/02/2020 03:03 pm »
Inside the Neil Armstrong Operations and Checkout Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the Artemis II crew module adapter (CMA) is being relocated from the clean room to the Pressure Proof Cell for additional testing and maintenance. The CMA connects the crew module to the service module. Artemis II is the first crewed mission in a series of missions to the Moon and on to Mars. Artemis II will confirm all of the Orion spacecraft’s systems operate as designed in the actual environment of deep space with astronauts aboard.
Jacques :-)

Offline Mammutti

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Re: EM-2/Artemis 2 Orion Construction and Processing Updates
« Reply #28 on: 07/08/2020 06:05 pm »
Quote from: NASA
Heat Shield Milestone Complete for First Orion Mission with Crew

Technicians at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida recently finished meticulously applying more than 180 blocks of ablative material to the heat shield for the Orion spacecraft set to carry astronauts around the Moon on Artemis II.

The heat shield is one of the most critical elements of Orion and protects the capsule and the astronauts inside from the nearly 5,000 degrees Fahrenheit temperatures, about half as hot at the Sun, experienced during reentry through Earth’s atmosphere when coming home from lunar velocities.

Prior to installation, several large blocks of the ablative material called AVCOAT were produced at the agency’s Michoud Assembly Facility in New Orleans. They were then shipped to Kennedy and machined into 186 unique smaller blocks before being applied by the technicians onto the heat shield’s underlying titanium skeleton and carbon fiber skin.

To continue preparing the heat shield, engineers will conduct non-destructive evaluations to look for voids in the bond lines, as well as measure the steps and gaps between the blocks. The gaps will be filled with adhesive material and then reassessed. The heatshield will then undergo a thermal test after which it will be sealed, painted and then taped to help weather on-orbit thermal conditions. Once all testing has been completed, later this year the heatshield will be installed and bolted to the crew module.

NASA is working to land the first woman and the next man on the Moon by 2024. Orion, along with NASA’s Space Launch System (SLS) rocket, the Human Landing System and the Gateway in orbit around the Moon, are NASA’s backbone for deep space exploration. Artemis II will be the first crewed mission of Orion atop the SLS rocket.

Image Credit: NASA/Isaac Watson

https://www.nasa.gov/image-feature/heat-shield-milestone-complete-for-first-orion-mission-with-crew

Offline jacqmans

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Re: EM-2/Artemis 2 Orion Construction and Processing Updates
« Reply #29 on: 07/09/2020 01:25 pm »
« Last Edit: 07/09/2020 01:26 pm by jacqmans »
Jacques :-)

Offline jacqmans

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Re: EM-2/Artemis 2 Orion Construction and Processing Updates
« Reply #30 on: 07/09/2020 01:28 pm »
Jacques :-)

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Re: EM-2/Artemis 2 Orion Construction and Processing Updates
« Reply #31 on: 07/09/2020 01:36 pm »
Jacques :-)

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Re: EM-2/Artemis 2 Orion Construction and Processing Updates
« Reply #32 on: 09/08/2020 07:15 pm »
Quote
NASA Kennedy
KSC-20200828-PH-JBS01_0103

The last of three motors required to assemble the Launch Abort System for NASA’s Artemis II mission, the attitude control motor (ACM), arrives at Kennedy Space Center in Florida on August 28. The attitude control motor (ACM) was delivered by truck from Northrop Grumman’s manufacturing facility in Maryland, to the Launch Abort System Facility (LASF) at Kennedy. During launch of Orion atop the agency’s Space Launch System rocket, the LAS motors work together to separate the spacecraft from the rocket in the unlikely event of an emergency during launch. The LAS includes three motors – the launch abort motor, the jettison motor, and the attitude control motor—that once activated, will steer the spacecraft carrying the astronauts to safety. The ACM operates to keep Orion’s crew module on a controlled flight path in the event it needs to jettison and steer away from the rocket. Artemis II is the first crewed flight in a series of increasingly complex missions to the Moon that will lay the foundation for exploration of Mars and beyond. Artemis II will confirm all of the Orion spacecraft’s systems operate as designed in the actual environment of deep space with astronauts aboard. As part of the Artemis program, NASA will send the first woman and next man to the Moon in 2024. Photo credit: NASA/Ben Smegelsky

https://www.flickr.com/photos/nasakennedy/50319674028/

Offline jacqmans

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Re: EM-2/Artemis 2 Orion Construction and Processing Updates
« Reply #33 on: 02/17/2021 08:01 am »
Workers inside the Neil Armstrong Operations and Checkout Building high bay at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, continue assembly of Orion’s Artemis II crew module on Feb. 5, 2021. The capsule will house astronauts during its mission around the Moon. Recently, teams removed the spacecraft from its clean room environment, where they have been performing the buildup of the Environmental Control and Propulsion System (ECPS) assemblies prior to their installation into the crew module. It will return to the clean room to complete ECPS final welds and assemblies. Artemis II will confirm all of the Orion spacecraft’s systems operate as designed in the actual environment of deep space with astronauts aboard. As part of the Artemis Program, NASA will send the first woman and next man to the Moon.
Jacques :-)

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Re: EM-2/Artemis 2 Orion Construction and Processing Updates
« Reply #34 on: 02/17/2021 08:02 am »
Workers inside the Neil Armstrong Operations and Checkout Building high bay at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, continue assembly of Orion’s Artemis II crew module on Feb. 5, 2021. The capsule will house astronauts during its mission around the Moon. Recently, teams removed the spacecraft from its clean room environment, where they have been performing the buildup of the Environmental Control and Propulsion System (ECPS) assemblies prior to their installation into the crew module. It will return to the clean room to complete ECPS final welds and assemblies. Artemis II will confirm all of the Orion spacecraft’s systems operate as designed in the actual environment of deep space with astronauts aboard. As part of the Artemis Program, NASA will send the first woman and next man to the Moon.
Jacques :-)

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Re: EM-2/Artemis 2 Orion Construction and Processing Updates
« Reply #35 on: 02/17/2021 08:06 am »
Workers inside the Neil Armstrong Operations and Checkout Building high bay at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, continue assembly of Orion’s Artemis II crew module on Feb. 5, 2021. The capsule will house astronauts during its mission around the Moon. Recently, teams removed the spacecraft from its clean room environment, where they have been performing the buildup of the Environmental Control and Propulsion System (ECPS) assemblies prior to their installation into the crew module. It will return to the clean room to complete ECPS final welds and assemblies. Artemis II will confirm all of the Orion spacecraft’s systems operate as designed in the actual environment of deep space with astronauts aboard. As part of the Artemis Program, NASA will send the first woman and next man to the Moon.
Jacques :-)

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Re: EM-2/Artemis 2 Orion Construction and Processing Updates
« Reply #37 on: 03/26/2021 04:11 pm »
Engine of Atlantis

Hmm... OMS pods stayed with the same orbiters throughout their lifetimes?  I thought they were sort of mix-and-match, rather like the SSMEs.

Specifically, I always was under the impression that the orbiter was brought into the processing facility post-flight, the SSMEs and OMS pods were removed and went into their own processing/refurbishment flow, and then the SSMEs and OMS pods re-installed were those most ready to support the next flight of that particular orbiter.  The engines (including the OMS engines and their pods) that were re-installed was usually pre-defined prior to the start of the processing flow.

Am I right, or am I remembering incorrectly?
-Doug  (With my shield, not yet upon it)

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Re: EM-2/Artemis 2 Orion Construction and Processing Updates
« Reply #38 on: 03/26/2021 05:51 pm »
You are right in general. But the circumstances make it so, that this specific engine flew only six times, and only on Atlantis.

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Re: EM-2/Artemis 2 Orion Construction and Processing Updates
« Reply #39 on: 08/11/2021 08:49 am »
The crew module for NASA’s Artemis II mission is shown inside Kennedy Space Center’s Neil A. Armstrong Operations and Checkout Building on July 15, 2021. Artemis will lay the foundation for a sustained long-term presence on the lunar surface. NASA will use the Moon to validate deep space systems and operations before embarking on a human voyage to Mars.
« Last Edit: 06/11/2022 02:49 am by zubenelgenubi »
Jacques :-)

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« Last Edit: 06/11/2022 03:09 am by zubenelgenubi »

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Re: EM-2/Artemis 2 Orion Construction and Processing Updates
« Reply #42 on: 06/11/2022 12:00 am »

Engineers Power Up Crew Module for First Artemis Mission with Astronauts

The Orion crew module for Artemis II was powered on for the first time May 27 inside the Neil Armstrong Operations and Checkout Building at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. This capsule will carry astronauts on a trip around the Moon during the first crewed Artemis mission and helps set the stage for future lunar landing missions through Artemis.


With initial power-on complete, the crew module will undergo a three-part test over several months which includes applying power to each of the eight power and data units that help provide communication between Orion’s flight computers to its components. In addition, teams will begin installing the forward bay cover, which protect the top part of the crew module as the capsule blazes back through Earth’s atmosphere at speeds of up to 25,000 mph at the end of its mission


With Artemis, NASA will land the first woman and the first person of color on the Moon and establish long-term exploration in preparation for missions to Mars. The Space Launch System rocket and Orion, along with the commercial human landing system and the Gateway that will orbit the Moon, are NASA’s backbone for deep space exploration.


Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett
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Re: EM-2/Artemis 2 Orion Construction and Processing Updates
« Reply #43 on: 06/11/2022 03:08 am »
Belated cross-post; high-resolution photos attached to source post:
Artemis II Service Module in O&C Highbay Clean Room

The European-built Service Module (ESM) for NASA’s Artemis II mission is on a work stand inside a clean room inside the high bay of the Neil A. Armstrong Operations and Checkout Building at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida on Jan. 12, 2022. Teams from NASA, Lockheed Martin, the European Space Agency and Airbus will prepare the service module to be integrated with the Orion crew module adapter and crew module, already housed in the facility. The powerhouse that will fuel and propel Orion in space, the ESM for Artemis II will be the first Artemis mission flying crew aboard Orion.
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Re: EM-2/Artemis 2 Orion Construction and Processing Updates
« Reply #44 on: 10/24/2022 12:41 pm »
Quote
Progress for #Artemis II is taking place at @NASAKennedy!
Engineers are outfitting the @NASA_Orion crew and services modules for the first @NASAArtemis mission that will carry astronauts around the Moon.

https://twitter.com/NASA_SLS/status/1584213059220172801?cxt=HHwWgsDTtcjYoPwrAAAA
To boldly go where no human has gone before !

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Re: EM-2/Artemis 2 Orion Construction and Processing Updates
« Reply #45 on: 10/26/2022 10:31 am »
Isn't this the heat shield of Artemis III which has just been delivered to KSC ?  :o

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Re: EM-2/Artemis 2 Orion Construction and Processing Updates
« Reply #46 on: 10/27/2022 12:59 pm »
Isn't this the heat shield of Artemis III which has just been delivered to KSC ?  :o
I don't believe so, unless NASA SLS mixed up the photos.  The Artemis-3(Orion s/n-004) heat shield, which arrived at KSC on Oct 18 from LM's Waterton Colorado facility, still needs 180 ablative Avcoat blocks "attached" to it, then be installed onto the the Crew Module.
Paul

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Re: EM-2/Artemis 2 Orion Construction and Processing Updates
« Reply #47 on: 01/10/2023 09:58 pm »
https://twitter.com/nasa_orion/status/1612941865057140736

Quote
Inside the Multi-Payload Processing Facility at @NASAKennedy, technicians start to remove components from the #Artemis I spacecraft, including avionics boxes and a crew seat that will be inspected and reused on Artemis II.

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Re: EM-2/Artemis 2 Orion Construction and Processing Updates
« Reply #48 on: 01/25/2023 05:29 pm »
https://twitter.com/nasa_orion/status/1618311384323743746

Quote
Pushing Orion's first crew to the Moon! Technicians at @NASAKennedy install the engine nozzle on the service module that will propel Orion on #Artemis II.

https://www.nasa.gov/image-feature/progress-continues-on-orion-s-service-module-for-artemis-ii

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Re: EM-2/Artemis 2 Orion Construction and Processing Updates
« Reply #49 on: 01/25/2023 10:28 pm »
More NASA photos

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Re: EM-2/Artemis 2 Orion Construction and Processing Updates
« Reply #50 on: 03/03/2023 12:05 am »
https://twitter.com/nasa_orion/status/1631426258486657027

Quote
It's about to get loud for this service module!

Before powering astronauts' trip around the Moon on the #Artemis II mission, engineers test Orion’s service module at @NASAKennedy by blasting it with acoustic levels up to 140 decibels – louder than a rock concert 🤘

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Re: EM-2/Artemis 2 Orion Construction and Processing Updates
« Reply #51 on: 06/27/2023 10:39 pm »
https://twitter.com/nasa_orion/status/1673802343236730880

Quote
The heat shield ensuring the safe return of the #Artemis II crew is installed on Orion!

Up next, the spacecraft will be outfitted with some of its external panels ahead of acoustic testing later this summer.

Read more:

https://blogs.nasa.gov/artemis/2023/06/27/orion-heat-shield-installed-for-nasas-artemis-ii-mission/

Quote
Orion Heat Shield Installed for NASA’s Artemis II Mission

On June 25, 2023, teams completed installation of the heat shield for the Artemis II Orion spacecraft inside the high bay of the Neil Armstrong Operations and Checkout Building at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida.

The 16.5-foot-wide heat shield is one of the most important systems on the Orion spacecraft ensuring a safe return of the astronauts on board. As the spacecraft returns to Earth following its mission around the Moon, it will be traveling at speeds of about 25,000 mph and experience outside temperatures of nearly 5,000 degrees Fahrenheit. Inside the spacecraft, however, astronauts will experience a much more comfortable temperature in the mid-70s thanks to Orion’s thermal protection system.

Up next, the spacecraft will be outfitted with some of its external panels ahead of acoustic testing later this summer. These tests will validate the crew module can withstand the vibrations it will experience throughout the Artemis II mission, during launch, flight, and landing.

Once acoustic testing is complete, technicians will attach the crew module to Orion’s service module, marking a major milestone for the Artemis II mission, the first mission with astronauts under Artemis that will test and check out all of Orion’s systems needed for future crewed missions.

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Re: EM-2/Artemis 2 Orion Construction and Processing Updates
« Reply #52 on: 07/08/2023 04:49 am »
Higher res photos from NASA Kennedy flickr

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Re: EM-2/Artemis 2 Orion Construction and Processing Updates
« Reply #53 on: 07/14/2023 02:44 pm »
https://twitter.com/bonzack/status/1679856267035131905

Quote
Left to right: Artemis III, Artemis IV, and Artemis II Orion Crew Modules.

@LMSpace is assembling the fourth thru sixth Orion at the Kennedy Space Center, the first three being EFT-1, STA, and Artemis I.

AR2: Heatshield install
AR3: Prop & ECLSS welding
AR4: Primary Structure

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Re: EM-2/Artemis 2 Orion Construction and Processing Updates
« Reply #54 on: 08/08/2023 03:01 pm »
twitter.com/johnkrausphotos/status/1688918644070420481

Quote
Orion Crew Module for Artemis II

https://twitter.com/johnkrausphotos/status/1688920422753144833

Quote
Artemis II Orion Crew Module closeups

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Re: EM-2/Artemis 2 Orion Construction and Processing Updates
« Reply #55 on: 08/08/2023 07:59 pm »
A selection of photos from NASA Kennedy

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Re: EM-2/Artemis 2 Orion Construction and Processing Updates
« Reply #57 on: 08/15/2023 03:21 pm »
From the recent article titled "Lockheed Martin, NASA working around the clock to finish Artemis II Orion assembly and hold 2024 launch date" (https://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2023/08/orion-update-081523/):
Quote
NASA also held an Artemis update media briefing at the KSC Press Site later in the day on Aug. 8, the first since the late November 2024 target date for launch was announced in early March. NASA Exploration Systems Development Mission Directorate Associate Administrator Jim Free said in the briefing that the target date still remains unchanged, although work was “a number of weeks” behind.
Artemis 2 will probably slip a bit like space projects usually do and launch in the first half of 2025.
« Last Edit: 08/15/2023 03:25 pm by deltaV »

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« Last Edit: 09/12/2023 02:38 pm by hektor »

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Re: EM-2/Artemis 2 Orion Construction and Processing Updates
« Reply #60 on: 09/17/2023 02:55 pm »
In Bremen - visit to the City Hall with the local authorities
https://twitter.com/RathausHB_news/status/1702714831759876448?s=20

« Last Edit: 09/17/2023 02:56 pm by hektor »

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Re: EM-2/Artemis 2 Orion Construction and Processing Updates
« Reply #61 on: 09/22/2023 09:46 pm »
https://twitter.com/nasa_orion/status/1705264822722465912

Quote
The #Artemis II crew module is being prepared to meet its service module — recently, the team completed weight and center of gravity testing at @NASAKennedy.

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Re: EM-2/Artemis 2 Orion Construction and Processing Updates
« Reply #62 on: 10/06/2023 01:15 am »
https://twitter.com/NASA_Orion/status/1709939559101084033
Quote
Teams at @NASAKennedy
 are completing final inspections of external insulation on the service module that will propel astronauts on the #Artemis II mission around the Moon.

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« Last Edit: 10/23/2023 03:25 pm by hektor »

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« Last Edit: 10/23/2023 10:37 pm by hektor »

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Re: EM-2/Artemis 2 Orion Construction and Processing Updates
« Reply #65 on: 10/24/2023 06:34 am »
https://blogs.nasa.gov/artemis/2023/10/23/artemis-ii-orion-crew-and-service-modules-joined-together/

Quote
Artemis II Orion Crew and Service Modules Joined Together

On Oct.19, the Orion crew and service modules for the Artemis II mission were joined together inside the Neil Armstrong Operations and Checkout Building at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida.

After successfully completing hardware installations and testing over the past several months, engineers connected the two major components of Orion that will fly NASA astronauts Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, and Christina Koch, along with CSA (Canadian Space Agency) astronaut Jeremy Hansen on a mission around the Moon and bring them home safely.

Now that the crew and service modules are integrated, the team will power up the combined crew and service module for the first time. After power on test are complete, Orion will begin altitude chamber testing, which will put the spacecraft through conditions as close as possible to the environment it will experience in the vacuum of deep space.

Author Jason Costa
Posted on October 23, 2023 10:59 am
Categories Artemis II, Kennedy Space Center, NASA, Orion SpacecraftTags Moon to Mars, Neil Armstrong Operations and Checkout Building, Orion crew module, Orion service module

First photo caption:

Quote
Intergration of the crew and service modules for the Artemis II Orion spacecraft was recently completed at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Photo credit: NASA

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Re: EM-2/Artemis 2 Orion Construction and Processing Updates
« Reply #67 on: 11/06/2023 03:26 pm »
https://twitter.com/nasa_orion/status/1720519941604962387

Quote
#Artemis II Mission Specialist @Astro_Christina tests out Orion's side hatch at Lockheed Martin Space in Denver! The crew will use the hatch to enter and exit the spacecraft for their upcoming mission around the Moon.

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Re: EM-2/Artemis 2 Orion Construction and Processing Updates
« Reply #68 on: 11/06/2023 05:44 pm »
https://blogs.esa.int/orion/2023/11/06/artemis-ii-turning-orion-on/

Quote
Today was the Initial Power-On (IPO) of the Orion vehicle destined for Artemis II, which will bring humans around the Moon and back for the first time in over 50 years.

In our last update, Orion’s crew and service modules were connected; today, the vehicle was powered up to make sure the modules are working together as they should. This means ensuring that the crew and service modules are communicating correctly with each other, and that the power from the European Service Module (ESM) is distributed correctly to the crew module.

The IPO itself only takes a few hours: “The power-on process is very quick; it’s not so different from connecting all the appliances in your apartment and then switching on the light to make sure it works,” says Dominique Siruguet, ESM assembly integration and verification engineer at ESA.

What’s next?

Now that the IPO was successful, Orion teams will test the vehicle over the coming weeks in many ways to confirm all subsystems are functioning correctly; for example, the ability of the service module to transfer power from the solar arrays to the crew module, as well as the capacity of the service module to switch to redundant units in case of contingencies.

An important upcoming test is the “closed-loop mission test”, a sort of dress rehearsal of Artemis II. “During a closed-loop mission test, we simulate the full mission scenario, mimicking the conditions of all the different mission phases from pre-launch, to launch and separation, and all the way back to Orion’s return to Earth,” explains Dominique.

“It is the first time this kind of test is being performed for the service module. The IPO will take about one or two weeks; we inject the parameters of the different mission phases into the service module and check that all navigation, propulsion and other subsystems are reacting correctly to maintain the mission course,” adds Dominique.

Stay tuned to read about the next Artemis II milestones, including testing Orion in the same vacuum altitude chamber used during the testing of the Apollo missions!

Captions:

Quote
(NB: Title image is of the Orion vehicle used in Artemis I at a similar stage in its construction as the current state of the Orion vehicle which will be used in Artemis II. Credits: NASA)

Quote
The cone-shaped crew module being stacked over the service module below it at Kennedy Space Center.
Credits: NASA

Quote
Apollo 1 crewmembers in 1966 in the same altitude chamber that Orion will soon be tested in at the Neil Armstrong Operations & Checkout Building in NASA’s Kennedy Space Centre.
Credits: NASA

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Re: EM-2/Artemis 2 Orion Construction and Processing Updates
« Reply #69 on: 11/06/2023 08:38 pm »
NASA Kennedy flickr photos of the Artemis II Orion crew and service modules being connected on October 19th.

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Re: EM-2/Artemis 2 Orion Construction and Processing Updates
« Reply #70 on: 11/06/2023 08:42 pm »
https://twitter.com/nasa_orion/status/1721633859979141243

Quote
At @NASAKennedy, the #Artemis II Orion was powered on for the first time to confirm that the crew and service modules are communicating with each other and that power is distributing correctly throughout the spacecraft.

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Re: EM-2/Artemis 2 Orion Construction and Processing Updates
« Reply #71 on: 01/09/2024 06:33 pm »
Orion Imagery – What’s New for Artemis II

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Re: EM-2/Artemis 2 Orion Construction and Processing Updates
« Reply #72 on: 02/15/2024 05:21 pm »
https://flic.kr/p/2pyhMSp

Quote
NASA Kennedy
KSC-20240201-PH-RNS01_0001

The Orion spacecraft for NASA's Artemis II mission received its latest makeover. Teams adhered the agency's iconic "worm" logo and ESA (European Space Agency) insignia on the spacecraft's crew module adapter on Sunday, Jan. 28, inside the Neil Armstrong Operations and Checkout Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Photo credit: NASA/Rad Sinyak

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Re: EM-2/Artemis 2 Orion Construction and Processing Updates
« Reply #73 on: 02/15/2024 07:51 pm »
Is this the first released image since the capsule and service module were de-mated? And is the service module shown attached to the spacecraft adapter but not the stage adapter that connects Orion to ICPS?
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Re: EM-2/Artemis 2 Orion Construction and Processing Updates
« Reply #74 on: 02/16/2024 06:07 am »
"A first look inside NASA_Orion that will take @astro_reid, @astrovicglover, @astro_christina and @astro_jeremy to the Moon!"

https://twitter.com/LMSpace/status/1758188135454794230


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Re: EM-2/Artemis 2 Orion Construction and Processing Updates
« Reply #75 on: 02/16/2024 09:29 am »
Is this the first released image since the capsule and service module were de-mated? And is the service module shown attached to the spacecraft adapter but not the stage adapter that connects Orion to ICPS?

What are you talking about. I have not seen anywhere mention of a CM/SM demate. Do you confirm they have been demated ?

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Re: EM-2/Artemis 2 Orion Construction and Processing Updates
« Reply #76 on: 02/16/2024 09:43 am »
Is this the first released image since the capsule and service module were de-mated? And is the service module shown attached to the spacecraft adapter but not the stage adapter that connects Orion to ICPS?

What are you talking about. I have not seen anywhere mention of a CM/SM demate. Do you confirm they have been demated ?

Apologies if I misunderstood the image in the post directly above mine. Is the CM visible in that image?
« Last Edit: 02/16/2024 09:50 am by sdsds »
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Re: EM-2/Artemis 2 Orion Construction and Processing Updates
« Reply #77 on: 02/16/2024 10:20 am »
Thanks for the clarification. A CM demate, if it happened, would probably have a huge schedule impact.

Offline whitelancer64

Is this the first released image since the capsule and service module were de-mated? And is the service module shown attached to the spacecraft adapter but not the stage adapter that connects Orion to ICPS?

What are you talking about. I have not seen anywhere mention of a CM/SM demate. Do you confirm they have been demated ?

Apologies if I misunderstood the image in the post directly above mine. Is the CM visible in that image?

I don't think they have been de-mated. However, the CM is not visible in the picture, it's blocked by the underside of the work platform (the gold-ish colored orthogrid ring is part of the work platform).

Yes, the cone-shaped bit is the Spacecraft Adapter that attaches the SM to the Orion Stage Adapter. The OSA (sadly, with no cubesats!) will be attached to the ICPS in the VAB separately, prior to Orion being stacked on it.
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Re: EM-2/Artemis 2 Orion Construction and Processing Updates
« Reply #79 on: 03/04/2024 05:14 pm »
"A first look inside NASA_Orion that will take @astro_reid, @astrovicglover, @astro_christina and @astro_jeremy to the Moon!"

https://twitter.com/LMSpace/status/1758188135454794230

its quite laughable that only a certified tech is allowed to touch what looks like piece of styrofoam protecting the windows. no wonder costs have skyrocketed. inefficiencies like these add up. either simplify the procedures and not need a specialised "window tech" to do a simple removal or design the window to do the same!

Offline whitelancer64

"A first look inside NASA_Orion that will take @astro_reid, @astrovicglover, @astro_christina and @astro_jeremy to the Moon!"

*yeet tweet*

its quite laughable that only a certified tech is allowed to touch what looks like piece of styrofoam protecting the windows. no wonder costs have skyrocketed. inefficiencies like these add up. either simplify the procedures and not need a specialised "window tech" to do a simple removal or design the window to do the same!

It's not styrofoam, they're hard plastic impact panels to prevent any damage to the windows while work is being done to the interior systems. They're attached by screws to the window's frame, which is why only someone certified can remove them - the screws need to be turned at a certain torque to prevent damage to the frame.
"One bit of advice: it is important to view knowledge as sort of a semantic tree -- make sure you understand the fundamental principles, ie the trunk and big branches, before you get into the leaves/details or there is nothing for them to hang on to." - Elon Musk
"There are lies, damned lies, and launch schedules." - Larry J

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Re: EM-2/Artemis 2 Orion Construction and Processing Updates
« Reply #81 on: 04/02/2024 09:43 pm »
https://twitter.com/NASASpaceflight/status/1775248553742414301

Quote
NASA is working with Orion spacecraft prime contractor Lockheed Martin to resolve a handful of issues that came up late last year during ground testing, forcing the delay of Artemis II to September 2025.

Philip Sloss overviews:

Article link:  https://www.nasaspaceflight.com/2024/04/resolving-artemis-ii-issues/
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Offline deltaV

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Re: EM-2/Artemis 2 Orion Construction and Processing Updates
« Reply #82 on: 04/03/2024 12:12 am »
Quote
NASA is working with Orion spacecraft prime contractor Lockheed Martin to resolve a handful of issues that came up late last year during ground testing, forcing the delay of Artemis II to September 2025.

This delay was announced back in January (https://www.nasa.gov/news-release/nasa-shares-progress-toward-early-artemis-moon-missions-with-crew/), as were delays of Artemis III to September 2026 (same press release) and Artemis IV to September 2028 (https://spacepolicyonline.com/news/nasa-delays-next-artemis-missions-to-2025-and-2026/). So the new thing in the NSF article is more details about the cause of the delay, not the fact of the delay itself.

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Re: EM-2/Artemis 2 Orion Construction and Processing Updates
« Reply #83 on: 04/04/2024 08:16 pm »
https://twitter.com/NASA_Orion/status/1775953334387503255

Quote
Orion Spacecraft

@NASA_Orion
New Orion pics👀✨

At @NASAKennedy, teams moved the #Artemis II stack into a vacuum chamber, where it will undergo electromagnetic compatibility and interference testing to confirm Orion can safely fly through harsh electric fields.
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Re: EM-2/Artemis 2 Orion Construction and Processing Updates
« Reply #84 on: 04/12/2024 08:42 am »
Artemis II Orion Vac Chamber Lift and Load Operations April 2024

Quote
Apr 11, 2024
On April 4, 2024, a team lifts the Artemis II Orion spacecraft into a vacuum chamber inside the Operations and Checkout Building at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, where it will undergo electromagnetic compatibility and interference testing.



Picture of the facility at KSC:  GEO Tag
« Last Edit: 04/12/2024 08:48 am by catdlr »
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Re: EM-2/Artemis 2 Orion Construction and Processing Updates
« Reply #85 on: 09/05/2024 02:29 pm »
https://twitter.com/SciGuySpace/status/1831687728997556512

Quote
An exploration program based on SLS and Orion has long been criticized as being hardware-poor. Being hardware-rich means you can test a lot. Being hardware-poor forces you into difficult corners like this:

Article
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Re: EM-2/Artemis 2 Orion Construction and Processing Updates
« Reply #86 on: 09/06/2024 04:48 pm »
Moon Minute: Orion Testing, Underway Recovery Testing, + Egress Basket Testing



Quote
Sep 6, 2024  #NASA #Artemis #OrionWant the latest update for NASA's Artemis campaign? Learn about how the Orion spacecraft is experiencing vacuum chamber testing, Artemis II astronauts complete an underway recovery test, and the emergency egress baskets undergo drop testing.

Credit: NASA
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Re: EM-2/Artemis 2 Orion Construction and Processing Updates
« Reply #87 on: 09/19/2024 08:36 pm »
cross-post for Artemis II heatshield issues:

Phillip Sloss Report:

Artemis II alternatives for Orion heat shield issue


https://forum.nasaspaceflight.com/index.php?topic=58223.msg2625904#new
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Re: EM-2/Artemis 2 Orion Construction and Processing Updates
« Reply #88 on: 09/22/2024 12:12 pm »
cross-post for Artemis II heatshield issues:

Phillip Sloss Report:

Quote
Waiting for Artemis II Orion heatshield decision, Starship sidetracked by regulations power play?

01:14 Orion environment test article to finish crew-rating abort certifications

https://forum.nasaspaceflight.com/index.php?topic=58223.msg2626669#msg2626669
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Offline Rocket Rancher

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Re: EM-2/Artemis 2 Orion Construction and Processing Updates
« Reply #89 on: 09/22/2024 12:34 pm »
Moon Minute: Orion Testing, Underway Recovery Testing, + Egress Basket Testing



Quote
Sep 6, 2024  #NASA #Artemis #OrionWant the latest update for NASA's Artemis campaign? Learn about how the Orion spacecraft is experiencing vacuum chamber testing, Artemis II astronauts complete an underway recovery test, and the emergency egress baskets undergo drop testing.

Credit: NASA

Has anyone ever ridden in an egress basket? All the testing I can remember back in the shuttle days and now are unmanned.

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Re: EM-2/Artemis 2 Orion Construction and Processing Updates
« Reply #90 on: 09/22/2024 12:51 pm »
Moon Minute: Orion Testing, Underway Recovery Testing, + Egress Basket Testing


Quote
Sep 6, 2024  #NASA #Artemis #OrionWant the latest update for NASA's Artemis campaign? Learn about how the Orion spacecraft is experiencing vacuum chamber testing, Artemis II astronauts complete an underway recovery test, and the emergency egress baskets undergo drop testing.

Credit: NASA

Has anyone ever ridden in an egress basket? All the testing I can remember back in the shuttle days and now are unmanned.

Two weeks ago. But I will admit that, through clever editing, the departure of the test team might have been staged after the testers were transferred down by elevator to the baskets below, and then filming resumed. I agree. I have seen many video tests of these, all without a person on board. I'm sure someone here will prove me wrong.

« Last Edit: 09/22/2024 12:55 pm by catdlr »
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Offline Rocket Rancher

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Re: EM-2/Artemis 2 Orion Construction and Processing Updates
« Reply #91 on: 09/22/2024 04:02 pm »
During my time on the Shuttle program, I remember individuals, who had been working the program from almost the start, say that NASA deemed the baskets to be too dangerous for someone to ride during test. Was someone injured in the early days and testing was limited to mass simulators? All hear say on my part. But ... if people are suppose to ride these in an emergency egress of the tower, if its not safe for people to test ride, how is it safe to ride in an emergency? Curious people want to know  ;)

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Re: EM-2/Artemis 2 Orion Construction and Processing Updates
« Reply #92 on: 09/22/2024 04:08 pm »
During my time on the Shuttle program, I remember individuals, who had been working the program from almost the start, say that NASA deemed the baskets to be too dangerous for someone to ride during test. Was someone injured in the early days and testing was limited to mass simulators? All hear say on my part. But ... if people are suppose to ride these in an emergency egress of the tower, if its not safe for people to test ride, how is it safe to ride in an emergency? Curious people want to know  ;)
Similar to ejection seats on a fighter or the LAS on a capsule. Fairly high risk of injury, but better than certain death of not using the system.

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Re: EM-2/Artemis 2 Orion Construction and Processing Updates
« Reply #93 on: 10/27/2024 08:13 pm »
Phillip Sloss updates the Artemis heatshield:

Time   Chapter Name
14:20 The big picture: waiting for big decisions, announcements, updates

https://forum.nasaspaceflight.com/index.php?topic=54243.msg2636824#msg2636824
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Re: EM-2/Artemis 2 Orion Construction and Processing Updates
« Reply #94 on: 10/28/2024 02:55 pm »
Quote
NASA's Lori Glaze says at the LEAG meeting this morning that an investigation has determine the root cause of the Orion heat shield erosion seen on Artemis 1, confirmed with arcjet testing. She declined to disclose that root cause.
https://twitter.com/jeff_foust/status/1850925398420328806
Quote
She says NASA is now doing testing to see how to mitigate that erosion on Artemis 2. That should be completed by the end of November, after which agency leadership will decide how to proceed.
« Last Edit: 10/29/2024 12:52 am by zubenelgenubi »
I cheer for both NASA and commercial space. For SLS, Orion, Falcon 9, Falcon Heavy, Dragon, Starship/SH, Starliner, Cygnus and all the rest!
I was blessed to see the launch of Space Shuttle Endeavour on STS-99. The launch was beyond amazing. My 8-year old mind was blown. I remember the noise and seeing the exhaust pour out of the shuttle as it lifted off. I remember staring and watching it soar while it was visible in the clear blue sky. It was one of the greatest moments of my life and I will never forget it.

Offline Targeteer

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Re: EM-2/Artemis 2 Orion Construction and Processing Updates
« Reply #95 on: 10/29/2024 03:03 am »
https://arstechnica.com/space/2024/10/for-some-reason-nasa-is-treating-orions-heat-shield-problems-as-a-secret/

For some reason, NASA is treating Orion’s heat shield problems as a secret
Best quote heard during an inspection, "I was unaware that I was the only one who was aware."

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Re: EM-2/Artemis 2 Orion Construction and Processing Updates
« Reply #96 on: 11/03/2024 11:50 am »
Phillip Sloss Weekly Update Video:

Quote
Artemis II preps on hold until year end for heatshield investigation, SLS KSC production ramp up

Quote
Nov 3, 2024
In this video, I'll review the NASA update on Orion base heatshield investigation this past week.  The update was a mixed bag: a root cause was found, but the space agency is declining to elaborate.  They are performing more testing for Artemis II flight rationale, but they won't say what decisions were made for a second unit that was already built for Artemis III.

We may have to wait until the end of the year to see how comprehensive a public announcement is, and with Artemis II stacking on hold for most or all of that time, chances of another delay to the target launch date are increasing.  Currently the official target date is next September, but there may be no schedule margin left by the end of this year if preparations remain on standby.

This video covers the heatshield investigation update and plans for work on Artemis II hardware in the meantime.  Boeing started expansion of their SLS Core Stage production to the Kennedy Space Center almost two years ago, and we're now seeing the groundwork nearing completion.  In the video, I'll take a first look at the engine section integration facility now at capacity, with the other Boeing SLS production facility in the Vehicle Assembly Building nearing activation.

Imagery is courtesy of NASA, except where noted.

Stories cited:
https://spacepolicyonline.com/news/nasa-identifies-root-cause-of-orion-heat-shield-char-loss/

https://spacenews.com/nasa-finds-but-does-not-disclose-root-cause-of-orion-heat-shield-erosion/

https://arstechnica.com/space/2024/10/for-some-reason-nasa-is-treating-orions-heat-shield-problems-as-a-secret/#gsc.tab=0

https://spacenews.com/ground-systems-could-delay-artemis-2-launch/


00:00 Intro
01:20 Orion heatshield investigation continues
03:43 Artemis II schedule uncertainty also continues
09:35 Artemis II Core Stage prepared for breakover and lift
12:03 Boeing SLS Core Stage facility in VAB High Bay 2 nearing activation
14:18 EGS work on Mobile Launcher-1 in the VAB in the meantime
15:46 Boeing SLS SSPF worksite at engine section capacity
21:39 Other news and notes
23:35 Thanks for watching!

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Re: EM-2/Artemis 2 Orion Construction and Processing Updates
« Reply #97 on: 12/01/2024 02:23 pm »
Phillip Sloss Weekly Report in Artemis II:

Will December 2024 bring updates to the Artemis schedule?

Quote

Dec 1, 2024
In this video I'll take a look at what could be ahead in the final month of 2024, now that Thanksgiving week is ending.  At the Kennedy Space Center, the rest of Artemis II stacking waits for a possible December decision on the Orion heatshield, and preparations are being made to stand up the Artemis II SLS Core Stage for some offline work in the meantime.

I'll also go over the two SLS elements that were stacked, an Artemis II flight crew KSC visit before Thanksgiving, and a few other news and notes.

With possible decisions before the end of the year and possible announcements around the change in administrations, there's time to take a look at watch items for Artemis II, III, and the big picture for Artemis on a relatively slow news week.

Imagery is courtesy of NASA, except where noted.

00:00 Intro
00:40 Artemis II SLS booster aft assembly stacking recap
04:06 Artemis II flight crew visit to KSC
05:15 VAB High Bay 2 notes, preparing to host Artemis II SLS Core Stage
06:03 Other news and notes, HLS Cargo awards and an Orion heatshield delivery
08:27 Big picture outlook as 2024 ends
12:54 Thanks for watching!

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